An Iowa cattle grazing survey conducted among farmers and landowners indicates several trends that are taking place for grazing rental rates and for pasture management practices in the state.

The 2006 survey, conducted by the Iowa Beef Center, the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Iowa Forage and Grassland Council, surveyed 448 agricultural producers in Iowa. Results were released in late August 2007.

Some of the key findings include:

* Kossuth, Pocahontas, Humboldt, Wright, Webster, Hamilton and Calhoun counties had the lowest annual average rent per acre at $24.50. Delaware, Dubuque, Jones, Jackson, Clinton, Cedar, Scott and Muscatine counties had the highest annual average rent per acre at about $45. The average rent per acre statewide was nearly $38.
* The rent per acre was highest on lands that had the greatest productivity, which were lands with alfalfa and tall cool season grasses. Rates for lands with alfalfa were as much as $64 per acre and lands with tall cool season grasses were as much as $59 per acre.
* Custom grazing fees on average per day were highest in the summer for a cow-calf pair, at 91 cents, and lowest for yearling cattle, at 78 cents. During the winter months, the highest daily fees were for developing heifers, at $1.14, and lowest for yearling cattle, at 65 cents.
* The majority of custom grazers provided labor during both winter and summer months as part of their agreements with the cattle owners, but most owners still covered the cost of animal healthcare.

Helps landowners, tenants gauge rental rates

Shane Ellis, Iowa State University Extension economist and a program specialist with the Iowa Beef Center, says the survey focused on a key group of producers affiliated with cattle grazing, and it provides additional details not found in the Cash Rental Rates for Iowa Survey published annually by ISU Extension.

"Results from this grazing survey will help landowners and tenants gauge the rental rate they are charging or paying," says Ellis. "People can use it as a source for what is going on in their area."
For the complete survey results visit www.iowabeefcenter.org. The Iowa Beef Center was formed in 1996 by a legislative mandate with the goal to support the growth and vitality of the beef cattle industry in the state. It links ISU Extension, research and education to directly help Iowa beef producers and allied industries.